10 Fall Safety Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know

There’s nothing like crisp mornings, golden leaves, and cozy evenings to remind us that fall has arrived. While your pets may also enjoy the cooler weather, autumn brings a few hidden hazards that can put them at risk. By staying alert and taking simple precautions, you can keep your furry friends safe, happy, and healthy all season long.

1. Stay on Top of Flea and Tick Prevention

Cooler weather doesn’t mean these pests disappear. In fact, ticks can remain active as long as the ground isn’t frozen. Some species, like the black-legged tick, are especially

active in the fall and can transmit dangerous illnesses such as Lyme disease. Keep your pets on year-round parasite prevention to stop fleas and ticks from hitching a ride indoors.

2. Don’t Skip Heartworm Protection

Heartworm prevention isn’t just for summer months. Since mosquitoes can linger until the first hard frost, it’s impossible to know when the last one will be gone. Because preventives work by eliminating larvae from the past 30 days, skipping doses could leave your pet vulnerable to this potentially deadly disease.

3. Beware of Rodenticides and Antifreeze

As rodents seek shelter in cooler months, many homeowners turn to rodenticides. These poisons can be fatal if ingested by pets. Similarly, fall is often “car winterizing season,” and antifreeze spills are extremely dangerous—pets are drawn to the sweet taste of ethylene glycol, but even a small amount can cause kidney failure. Always store products securely, clean spills right away, and consider pet-safer alternatives.

4. Keep School Supplies Out of Reach

Back-to-school season means more pencils, glue sticks, and markers lying around the house. While most of these aren’t highly toxic, they can cause stomach upset—or even dangerous blockages—if swallowed. Teach kids to keep backpacks zipped and supplies stowed where pets can’t reach them.

5. Guard Against Toxic Plants and Fall Décor

That cheerful porch display of pumpkins, gourds, hay bales, and mums may look inviting, but it can spell trouble for pets. Chrysanthemums (mums) are toxic to dogs and cats, and while pumpkins and hay aren’t poisonous, mold can grow on them and make pets sick if eaten. Keep decorative items out of nibbling range.

6. Protect Pets from Mushrooms

Fall is prime mushroom season. Although most wild mushrooms are harmless, a small number are dangerously toxic—and it’s nearly impossible to tell them apart. The safest bet is to keep your pet away from areas where mushrooms are growing.

7. Watch Out for Wildlife

As snakes prepare for hibernation, encounters may become more common. Venomous bites pose a serious threat to curious pets. Research which species are active in your area and keep dogs on a leash when hiking or exploring wooded areas.

8. Prevent Seasonal Boredom and Anxiety

The return to school and busy fall schedules can leave pets home alone more often, which sometimes leads to stress and/or destructive behavior. Offer enrichment with food puzzles, interactive toys, or designated playtime before and after you leave the house. If you notice signs of separation anxiety, talk to your veterinarian or a behavior specialist for help.

9. Prepare for Chilly Weather

While pets have fur coats, they’re not immune to the cold. Smaller dogs, senior pets, and cats are especially sensitive to low temperatures. As a rule of thumb, if it’s too cold for you to be comfortable outside, it’s too cold for your pet. Consider jackets, booties, or shorter outings on frosty days.

10. Walk Safely in Shorter Days

With fewer daylight hours, many walks happen at dawn or dusk. Improve visibility with reflective gear for both you and your pet, stick to well-lit routes, and always use a leash. Watch out for seasonal hazards on the ground, such as apples, acorns, and mushrooms, which can cause digestive upset—or worse—if ingested.

Enjoy Fall—Safely

Autumn is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your pet, but it’s also a season full of new challenges. By keeping an eye on potential hazards and sticking to preventive care, you’ll help ensure your furry friend enjoys all the fun of fall without the risks.

If you ever suspect your pet has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.